Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care (CRICOS course code 119585D) is a Certificate III delivered by Pacific College Pty Ltd over 1 year. This qualification is designed for international students seeking to work in early childhood education settings, including childcare centres and preschools. It provides foundational knowledge and skills to support children's learning and development. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider code 02668F), it meets Australian standards and allows international students to apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500). Pacific College Pty Ltd, a private provider, offers this course at two campuses in New South Wales: Auburn and Sydney CBD. With over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses, Australia offers diverse study options. HeadStart Academy is a free resource that helps you compare courses and providers using official CRICOS data. Always verify current fees and entry requirements directly with the provider.
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This course falls under the field of education (07 - Education, specifically Teacher Education: Early Childhood). At Certificate III level, graduates learn to support children's wellbeing, create engaging learning environments, and work collaboratively with families. Typical topics include child development, health and safety, play-based learning, and cultural awareness. While Pacific College Pty Ltd sets the specific curriculum, graduates generally develop practical skills to assist in early childhood settings. This qualification meets the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) Level 3 standard. International students should note that this course does not include a work component, but practical placements may be arranged by the provider—confirm with Pacific College.
The course runs for 1 year (52 weeks) as recorded on the CRICOS register. It is taught in English, and Pacific College Pty Ltd may offer full-time study options. This is a single qualification, not a dual or foundation program. Students should expect a structured timetable with both classroom learning and self-study. The location—either Auburn or Sydney—offers access to Australia's largest city, with excellent public transport. Sydney has over 200,000 international students and rich cultural diversity. Auburn, a western suburb, is well-connected by train and bus. Living costs in Sydney are higher than the national average; indicative weekly rent is around A$450–600, groceries A$100–150, and transport A$40–50. However, these are estimates and can vary.
The indicative tuition fee for Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care is A$16,000, with non-tuition fees of A$850, giving an estimated total of A$16,850. Please note: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, and the visa application charge are not included. OSHC is mandatory and costs roughly A$500–700 per year. The student visa application fee is currently A$1,600 (subject to change). Always confirm current fees with Pacific College Pty Ltd at www.pct.edu.au. Fees are set by the institution and may change; the CRICOS register data is as at April 2026. HeadStart Academy provides indicative figures only.
For international students, English proficiency is typically required with an IELTS overall score of 5.0–5.5 (or equivalent). Additionally, applicants should have completed Year 10 or equivalent qualifications. This course is at Certificate III level, so no prior early childhood experience is necessary. Pacific College Pty Ltd may have specific prerequisites, such as a Working with Children Check or health requirements—check their website. There are no foundation studies pathways listed for this course; contact the provider for bridging options. Remember, meeting academic entry requirements does not guarantee a visa—you must also satisfy the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criteria.
This course has no mandatory work component according to the CRICOS register. However, Pacific College Pty Ltd may include optional or recommended work placements. International students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. Work can help gain experience and offset living costs. Always check your visa conditions before working.
Pacific College Pty Ltd delivers this course at two campuses in New South Wales: Pacific College (Auburn) - RTO Operations, located in AUBURN, NSW; and Pacific College Sydney City Campus, located in SYDNEY, NSW. Both locations are in Australia's most populous state, offering vibrant student life. Auburn is a multicultural suburb with affordable housing compared to the city centre. Sydney's city campus is near transport hubs, shopping, and entertainment. NSW has over 30 CRICOS-registered providers in the Sydney area, making it a popular study destination. The state's education system is highly regarded internationally.
International students need a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this CRICOS-registered course. Key requirements include: Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from Pacific College Pty Ltd, evidence of English proficiency, genuine temporary entrant (GTE) statement, sufficient funds for tuition and living costs (at least A$29,710 per year for living costs plus travel and OSHC), and Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC). Student visa holders can work 48 hours per fortnight during study periods. The ESOS Act protects international students' rights, including tuition fee protection. HeadStart Academy cannot guarantee visa outcomes—consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or the Department of Home Affairs.
Follow these three steps to apply for Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care at Pacific College Pty Ltd:
1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy's database to filter by course level, field, and city. Compare providers like Pacific College Pty Ltd (CRICOS 02668F) to find the best fit.
2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Visit www.pct.edu.au to check entry requirements, English test scores, application deadlines, and submit your application. Pacific College may ask for academic transcripts and a personal statement.
3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once accepted, you'll get a CoE. Then lodge your visa application online, including GTE, OSHC, and financial evidence. Processing times vary; apply early.
Choosing between Sydney's city campus and Auburn campus depends on your lifestyle preferences. Sydney offers a fast-paced urban environment with top attractions, but higher living costs. Auburn provides a quieter, more affordable suburban experience with strong community ties. Both locations have reliable public transport: trains and buses connect Auburn to Sydney CBD in about 30 minutes. NSW has over 150 CRICOS-registered providers, giving you plenty of options. Living costs in Auburn are roughly A$350–500 per week for rent, compared to Sydney's A$450–600. Consider your budget and study preferences when choosing.
Ready to start your early childhood education journey? Visit Pacific College Pty Ltd's website at www.pct.edu.au to apply today.
Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care is a CRICOS-registered programme at Pacific College Pty Ltd. Use this register extract [CRICOS register, Apr 2026] to cross-check codes, duration and indicative fees before you apply.
This page is general information only and not migration advice. Confirm Student visa (Subclass 500) requirements with the Department of Home Affairs.